Introduction
When you arrive for your first massage—or even a follow-up session—you’ll likely be asked to fill out a form or have a quick chat about your health. Questions like:
Do you have high blood pressure? Are you pregnant? Have you had recent surgery?
You might wonder: Why does my massage therapist need to know this? I just want a relaxing rubdown.
The answer is simple: Your safety comes first.
Just as your doctor needs your medical history to treat you effectively, your massage therapist needs this information to provide safe, personalized, and beneficial care.
Let’s take a closer look at why your health history matters—and how it protects you.
Massage Is More Than Just Relaxation
While massage feels wonderful and helps reduce stress, it’s also a therapeutic practice that affects your muscles, circulation, nervous system, and even internal organs. Depending on your condition, certain techniques can be healing—or potentially harmful.
For example:
- Deep pressure might be perfect for a tight shoulder, but dangerous after a blood clot.
- A gentle stroke could aid recovery from surgery—or disrupt healing if done too soon.
That’s why understanding your medical background isn’t just routine—it’s essential.
Common Conditions That Affect Massage Safety
Here are some examples of why your therapist needs to know about your health:
1. Blood Clots (Deep Vein Thrombosis)
⚠️ Why it matters: Massage can dislodge a clot, leading to a life-threatening pulmonary embolism.
✅ What we do: Avoid massaging the affected area or postpone treatment until cleared by a doctor.
2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
⚠️ Why it matters: Vigorous massage can temporarily raise blood pressure.
✅ What we do: Use gentle techniques and avoid stimulating strokes to keep your system calm.
3. Recent Surgery or Injury
⚠️ Why it matters: Tissues need time to heal. Too much pressure too soon can cause damage.
✅ What we do: Modify pressure, avoid the surgical site, and focus on surrounding areas for support.
4. Osteoporosis or Bone Conditions
⚠️ Why it matters: Fragile bones can be injured by deep pressure or stretching.
✅ What we do: Use light, soothing techniques to avoid risk.
5. Cancer and Active Treatment
⚠️ Why it matters: Chemotherapy and radiation weaken the body. Some areas may be off-limits (e.g., lymph nodes after mastectomy).
✅ What we do: Work with your oncologist’s guidance and use gentle, supportive massage.
6. Pregnancy
⚠️ Why it matters: Certain pressure points and positions can be risky in early pregnancy.
✅ What we do: Use prenatal-safe techniques and positioning (like side-lying or specialized cushions).
7. Skin Conditions or Infections
⚠️ Why it matters: Open sores, rashes, or contagious conditions (like herpes or cellulitis) can spread or worsen with touch.
✅ What we do: Wait until the condition clears or avoid affected areas.
It’s Not Just About Avoiding Harm—It’s About Helping You Better
Your medical history doesn’t just tell us what not to do—it helps us customize your session for maximum benefit.
For example:
- If you have arthritis, we can focus on gentle joint mobility and surrounding muscle relief.
- If you’re managing diabetes, we’ll avoid areas with poor circulation or neuropathy.
- If you have anxiety or PTSD, we’ll prioritize communication, consent, and a trauma-informed approach.
The more we know, the better we can serve you.
Everything You Share Is Confidential
Your health information is private and protected. It’s used solely to ensure your safety and enhance your treatment. We never share your details without your consent.
Think of it like talking to your doctor: honest, respectful, and completely confidential.
How You Can Help
To make your massage safe and effective: ✅ Be honest and thorough on your intake form.
✅ Update us if your health changes (e.g., new diagnosis, surgery, or pregnancy).
✅ Ask questions if you’re unsure why we’re asking something.
Open communication builds trust—and leads to better results.
Final Thoughts
Asking about your medical history isn’t about paperwork or protocol—it’s about respect, responsibility, and care. We want you to leave feeling better, not at risk.
When you share your health story, you’re not just a client—you’re a partner in your own well-being.
And that’s how safe, effective, and transformative massage begins.
🫶 Your safety is our priority.
Thank you for trusting us with your health.
👉 Have questions about how your condition affects your massage? We’re here to talk. [Contact Us] or mention it at your next session.
